Study Abroad
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In 2016, for the first time, 47,000 Indians travelled to Japan as study abroad students. Interestingly, nearly half of these students committed similar errors. So here are 3 crucial things to avoid for Indians looking to study in Japan.
As I was looking into the process for obtaining a student visa for Japan, I was quite surprised by the amount of money involved. A large part of the cost isn't actually paid to the embassy or consulate to whom the application is given, so make sure you factor it in. The application fee for a student visa in 2026 is ¥3,000 (about $20 USD / €18 / INR 1,500) but a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) costs ¥4,000 (about $27 USD / €24 / INR 2,000).
COE 3 months before start of course Some students have experienced delays in their studies due to insufficient time to secure a COE, which can only be applied 3 months before the course commencement date. Apply for your COE 3 months before your course starts to avoid any inconvenience in your study plans.
Living in Japan can be a real thrill, but all things come at a cost. Here’s a run-down of the costs for each city we visited.
The cost of living in Japan is about 20% higher than in Seoul, South Korea, but learning the Japanese culture and the educational system here has been an invaluable experience.
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A lot of students tend to forget that you usually need guarantor for apartments in Japan. And also the National Health Insurance which is compulsory for all inhabitants in Japan, including students.
University clubs are also a great way to make local friends and also to improve your Japanese, which you'll find useful not only in the university but also in your life in Japan.
Tokyo is Japan’s capital. it's a modern city with a very efficient public transportation system. I would advise to try to avoid rush hour if possible. Tokyo is an extremely expensive place but it's a truly unique experience.
There’s food. Everywhere. Pretty much all the time. Food in Osaka is excellent. Affordable too. As compared to Tokyo. Another big draw for foodies who love trying new cuisine.
Known for its history and culture, Kyoto is a great place to study classical arts. Kyoto has a lower cost of living than Tokyo and Osaka.
Fukuoka is growing as a tech hub and offers a balance of urban and rural experiences, making it an attractive option for students who want a quieter, yet modern lifestyle.
Japanese student visas enable work up to 28 hours a week during term time, which helps increase your financial resources to help maintain your living expenses. you'll need to join the National Health Insurance scheme as soon as you arrive.
For official information please see Japan government portal and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
Indian Students in Japan: The journey ahead. If you're an Indian student planning to move to Japan we highly recommend getting in touch with Indian Students Association Japan, the Indian students body here. This is quite important as it takes time to get used to things in Japan such as punctuality and Japanese communication methods.
Contact Indian Embassy in Japan for more assistance.
A Certificate of Eligibility, proof of funds and acceptance from a Japanese academic institution are required.
Monthly living costs range from ¥90,000 to ¥150,000 depending on the city.
Yes, up to 28 hours per week during school terms.
Adapting to Japanese punctuality and indirect communication is crucial.
Get a COE then apply for a visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate.
Yes, enrollment in the National Health Insurance is required.
Japan is probably the more expensive option, but Japan has so much to offer in terms of Culture and academics.
Found this helpful? Share it with someone moving to Japan And, here’s a few more Japan expat guides to mull over.
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Arin Vale